Orange Pound Cake

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Orange Pound Cake wafting through your kitchen. This delightful dessert is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a celebration of citrus flavors that can brighten any day. Soft, buttery, and bursting with orange goodness, this cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon tea, a festive gathering, or even a simple weeknight treat. Let’s dive into the world of Orange Pound Cake, where every slice is a slice of happiness!

Why Cooks Rave About It

Orange Pound Cake is a beloved classic for several reasons. First, its dense yet moist texture makes it satisfying without being overly heavy. The bright, zesty flavor from the fresh oranges makes it a refreshing alternative to traditional pound cakes. This cake is incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it plain, drizzled with a sweet orange glaze, or even topped with whipped cream and berries. It’s a recipe that has stood the test of time, perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday celebration, holiday feast, or just a well-deserved treat for yourself.

What You’ll Gather

To create this delightful Orange Pound Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups (372g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• ¾ cup (177ml) buttermilk
• ¾ cup (79ml) fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (from 1-2 oranges)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon orange extract (optional)
• ½ cup (50g) granulated sugar (for glaze)
• ¼ cup (60ml) fresh orange juice (for glaze)
• 1 cup (113g) powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons (15-30ml) orange juice (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (for glaze)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To whip up this delicious cake, gather the following kitchen gear:

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients
• Electric mixer or whisk – to cream the butter and sugar
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements
• Rubber spatula – for folding in the flour and ensuring smooth batter
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches) – to bake your cake to golden perfection
• Cooling rack – to cool the cake before glazing
• Small saucepan – for preparing the glaze

Make Orange Pound Cake: A Simple Method

Follow these easy steps to create your own Orange Pound Cake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, giving your cake a lovely rise.

Step 5: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Add the buttermilk, fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, using a rubber spatula to fold them together gently. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with your spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and fresh orange juice over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, additional orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.

Step 10: Glaze Your Cake

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake for added flavor.

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to make this recipe on a budget or with what you have at home, consider these swaps:

• Buttermilk: You can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
• Granulated sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if desired.
• Fresh orange juice: If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice works in a pinch, though fresh is always best!

Pro Perspective

To achieve the best results with your Orange Pound Cake, remember these pro tips:

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Do not overmix your batter; it can lead to a dense cake instead of the desired light texture.
• Test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, not wet batter.
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing for the best presentation.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftover Orange Pound Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes beautifully! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before enjoying. If you prefer a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Orange Pound Cake FAQs

Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of orange?

Absolutely! Lemon or lime would work wonderfully as substitutes for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the zest and juice accordingly.

Why is my Orange Pound Cake dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to a denser cake. Make sure to mix until just combined for a lighter texture.

How can I make my cake more orange-flavored?

Increase the amount of orange zest and juice, or consider adding a bit more orange extract for an extra burst of flavor.

Can I make mini Orange Pound Cakes?

Yes, you can divide the batter into mini loaf pans! Just reduce the baking time to about 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Serve & Enjoy

Slice into your beautifully baked Orange Pound Cake and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate treat. Your friends and family will be raving about this cake long after the last crumb has been devoured. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries, this Orange Pound Cake is sure to leave a lasting impression. Happy baking, and may every slice bring you joy!